First Watch Restaurant Group Inc (FWRG)vsMcDonald’s Corporation (MCD)
FWRG
First Watch Restaurant Group Inc
$10.18
-0.59%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $763.78M
MCD
McDonald’s Corporation
$279.84
+0.46%
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · Cap: $196.36B
Smart Verdict
WallStSmart Research — data-driven comparison
McDonald’s Corporation generates 2059% more annual revenue ($27.45B vs $1.27B). MCD leads profitability with a 31.6% profit margin vs 1.4%. MCD trades at a lower P/E of 22.8x. MCD earns a higher WallStSmart Score of 55/100 (C-).
FWRG
Buy54
out of 100
Grade: C-
MCD
Buy55
out of 100
Grade: C-
Intrinsic Value Comparison
Multi-model valuation · Graham Formula
Margin of Safety
-35.5%
Fair Value
$12.24
Current Price
$10.18
$2.06 premium
Margin of Safety
-85.8%
Fair Value
$150.63
Current Price
$279.84
$129.21 premium
Key Strengths & Concerns
Side-by-side fundamental analysis
Key Strengths
Reasonable price relative to book value
Earnings expanding 2290.0% YoY
17.3% revenue growth
Keeps 32 of every $100 in revenue as profit
Strong operational efficiency at 44.3%
Conservative balance sheet, low leverage
Large-cap with strong market position
Generating 1.7B in free cash flow
Areas to Watch
Smaller company, higher risk/reward
ROE of 2.8% — below average capital efficiency
1.4% margin — thin
Operating margin of 0.8%
ROE of 0.0% — below average capital efficiency
Weak financial health signals
Expensive relative to growth rate
Comparative Analysis Report
WallStSmart ResearchBull Case : FWRG
The strongest argument for FWRG centers on Price/Book, EPS Growth, Revenue Growth. Revenue growth of 17.3% demonstrates continued momentum.
Bull Case : MCD
The strongest argument for MCD centers on Profit Margin, Operating Margin, Debt/Equity. Profitability is solid with margins at 31.6% and operating margin at 44.3%.
Bear Case : FWRG
The primary concerns for FWRG are Market Cap, Return on Equity, Profit Margin. A P/E of 44.3x leaves little room for execution misses. Thin 1.4% margins leave little buffer for downturns.
Bear Case : MCD
The primary concerns for MCD are Return on Equity, Piotroski F-Score, PEG Ratio.
Key Dynamics to Monitor
FWRG profiles as a growth stock while MCD is a mature play — different risk/reward profiles.
FWRG carries more volatility with a beta of 1.06 — expect wider price swings.
FWRG is growing revenue faster at 17.3% — sustainability is the question.
MCD generates stronger free cash flow (1.7B), providing more financial flexibility.
Bottom Line
MCD scores higher overall (55/100 vs 54/100), backed by strong 31.6% margins. Both earn "Buy" and "Buy" ratings respectively — the choice depends on your investment horizon and risk tolerance.
This analysis is generated from publicly available financial data. Not financial advice.
First Watch Restaurant Group Inc
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · RESTAURANTS · USA
First Watch Restaurant Group Inc (FWRG) is a prominent player in the fast-casual dining sector, specializing in breakfast, brunch, and lunch, with a strong emphasis on health-conscious and high-quality culinary offerings. Founded in 1983, the company has cultivated a loyal customer base through an innovative and adaptable menu that reflects contemporary food trends. With a commitment to exceptional customer service and a unique dining experience, First Watch is strategically expanding its footprint in new markets, positioning itself for sustainable growth and increased shareholder value in a competitive landscape.
Visit Website →McDonald’s Corporation
CONSUMER CYCLICAL · RESTAURANTS · USA
McDonald's Corporation is an American fast food company, founded in 1940 as a restaurant operated by Richard and Maurice McDonald, in San Bernardino, California, United States. They rechristened their business as a hamburger stand, and later turned the company into a franchise, with the Golden Arches logo being introduced in 1953 at a location in Phoenix, Arizona.
Visit Website →Compare with Other RESTAURANTS Stocks
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